We, the undersigned parents, guardians, and community members, respectfully request that Unionville–Sebewaing Area Schools take immediate steps to remove artificial food dyes from all food and beverages provided to students.

Why This Matters:

Research has shown that artificial food dyes, such as Red 40, Yellow 5 & 6, and Blue 1, can negatively impact children’s health, behavior, and focus. These dyes have been linked to hyperactivity, mood changes, and allergic reactions, particularly in young children. Many countries have already banned or restricted their use. California has already banned them in schools and it’s time for our school to follow suit.

As parents, we’ve seen the harmful effects of artificial dyes firsthand. For example, my daughter experienced noticeable changes in her sleep, emotions, and behavior after consuming foods with artificial dyes. Once we removed them from her diet completely, we saw significant improvements—she slept better, was calmer, and had fewer emotional outbursts. When speaking with other parents about attempting the same eliminations, I often hear how difficult it is when it comes to food at school. 

What We’re Asking For:

We ask Unionville–Sebewaing Area Schools to prioritize student health by:

 1. Eliminating artificial food dyes from all school-provided meals, snacks, and beverages.

 2. Offering natural, dye-free alternatives when color is necessary.

 3. Educating staff and families about healthier options and the benefits of removing artificial dyes.

The Benefits:

By removing artificial dyes, we can create a healthier environment where all children can thrive. Studies show that dye-free foods improve focus, reduce behavioral issues, and support overall well-being.